Bergen, the 'Gateway to the Fjords', is Norway's second city and one of its most attractive. It has a delightful natural setting, with seven imposing mountains surrounding it on three sides. The approach to the city by cruise ship is a rewarding experience - the rocky islets and towering peaks form a dramatic backdrop for the city's rainbow-painted houses.

Bergen's long history as Norway's leading port and latterly as an international business and tourist centre lends it a more cosmopolitan air than other major Norwegian cities. The lively atmosphere around the Torget (market), the focal point of the city's social life, reflects this.

Bergen's busy port serves an increasing number of cruise ships operating in the area and the city surrounds the historic harbour area.

The centre has a fairly compact layout and most areas of interest are within walking distance. Bryggen (the wharf area) is right in the middle of the quayside close to the fish market.

Despite its small scale there is plenty to keep the visitor amused, with many of the key attractions focusing on the city's natural setting and beautiful surroundings.

Highlights
• Fløibanen Funicular Railway
• Bryggen (Historic wharfside)
• Bryggens Museum
• Akvariet I Bergen (Bergen Aquarium)
• Mariakirken (St Mary's Church)
• Rosenkrantz Tower/Håkon's Hall

Bergen Turistinformasjon (Bergen Tourist Information)
Vågsallmenningen 1
Tel: +47 5555 2000.
Website: www.visitbergen.com 

Silversmiths and potteries are numerous and worth visiting. Traditional items include furs, printed textiles, woven articles, knitwear, woodcarving, silver, enamel, pewter, glass and porcelain.

The pedestrianised streets of Gamle Strandgaten, Marken and Torgalmenningen have shops selling everything from toy trolls to antiques, handicrafts to Norwegian sweaters and ceramics to silver jewellery. Husfliden, in Vågsallmenningen, is one of the leading gift shops.

Many cafes and restaurants serve lunch from a koldtbord (cold table), with smoked salmon, fresh lobster, shrimp and hot dishes. Open sandwiches are topped with meat, fish, cheese and salads.

Bergen enjoys a relatively moderate climate owing to the Gulf Stream and North Atlantic Drift. Take a waterproof coat - rain is frequent throughout the year, with frequent inland snowfalls during the winter.

Norway

GMT + 1.

Norwegian Krone (NOK) = 100 øre.

Norwegian.

Southwest coast of Norway.

248,000.

Constitutional monarchy.

Lutheran Protestant majority, with Catholic and other minorities.

English is widely spoken, and casual dress is normal. Lunch, generally a light open sandwich snack is taken between 1130 and 1200, and dinner usually takes place at 1700. It is customary for an invited guest to offer gifts to the host/hostess of a meal. Smoking is prohibited in all public places.

Tipping: Waiters expect a tip of no more than 5% of the bill.